Our feet are truly fascinating.
Often times we don’t realize how complex they actually are. But to put it in perspective, our feet and ankles are comprised of a total of 52 bones, 66 joints, and hundreds of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
This complex anatomy allows us to sustain our body weight as we trudge throughout this world and gives us balance while we stand. They work tirelessly to take us from here to there each and every day, month after month, and year after year. Yet somehow, they seem to be the most underappreciated part of our bodies.
But did you know that over the course of a single day, our feet normally take a cumulative force of 200 tons?! (Incredible, right?) This, of course, is only possible because of our Achilles tendon – which just so happens to be the strongest tendon in our bodies. And, as the average person walks over 110,000 miles throughout their lifetime – don’t even try to do the math! – it is mind-boggling how often we tend to neglect our feet.
In fact, many of us can go days without taking but a passing glance at our feet until one day we wake up with that pain, that lump, or that itch. It may begin as minor inconvenience, then suddenly it takes over our lives. No more morning jogs, no more wearing our favorite pair of shoes – just pain and aggravation.
The reality is that our feet should be top priority when it comes to taking care of our well-being. After all, they are the very foundation keeping our bodies moving!
So, shouldn’t we start paying more attention our feet?
Dr. Joel Foster in Lee’s Summit says: Absolutely!
And, that is why we are here to help you keep your feet healthy and happy. Keep reading our blog to find out the 3 major don’ts in footcare.
The 3 Major Foot Care Mistakes
Below are some things you should keep in mind whenever you are caring for your feet:
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Never go barefoot.
Yes, we understand that letting your toes be free is an amazing feeling. But the reality is that whenever your feet are unprotected – well – they are unprotected. This means that you are at a higher risk of suffering from cuts, sores, and other injuries.
Not to mention that whenever you choose to go barefoot you are also choosing to dismiss the comfort and support that shoes can provide to your feet. If you go long periods without wearing shoes, then this could result in fallen arches or flat feet due to lack of support.
All in all, when you go barefoot you are instantly assuming the risk of suffering anything from cuts and scrapes to contracting bacteria and causing detrimental changes to your biomechanics.
Instead, look for a comfortable and supportive shoe made from breathable material. You may even opt for sandals and open-toe footwear whenever the weather permits – as long as they provide the appropriate comfort and support to your feet.
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Never cut your nails too short or in arch shape.
Cutting your nails too short or in arch shape will increase you risk of contracting bacteria and developing ingrown nails.
Whenever you cut your nails too short you are at risk of exposing the cuticle or even removing it completely. This leaves an open path for air, dust, and other impurities to get underneath the nail and begin an infection. Not to mention the added pressure that may occur whenever the damaged cuticle comes into contact with something which can be painful.
If you cut your nails in an arch shape, then you are putting yourself at a higher risk for developing an ingrown nail. This happens because the edges of the nail can begin to dig into the surrounding skin, causing it to become irritated and even grow over the nail itself.
Therefore, you should cut your nails straight across and leave at least 1 millimeter of “white tip.”
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Never ignore pain.
If you ever feel pain in your feet, then you should never dismiss it as normal or “not a big deal.” Though, it is no surprise that you may feel discomfort in your feet once in a while – after all, they do take a pounding on the daily basis – having pain in your feet could very well be a sign of something more serious.
Whenever you do feel any type of discomfort in your feet, you should cease all high impact activities, elevate them and apply ice to the area in pain. Note that you should avoid applying ice directly to the skin – use a towel for protection.
Now, if you are in extreme pain or your discomfort does not go away within 24hrs, that is a good indicator that something more serious may be going on and you should immediately seek advice from a podiatrist.
And that is where we come in!
We Can Help You at Our Lee's Summit Podiatry Office Today
The good news is that we can help you with any foot care-related questions or concerns. Whenever you come in to visit us at our office in Lees Summit, Missouri, you will be provided with expert care and offered comprehensive treatment options.
To schedule an appointment with us, just call our office at (816) 246-4222 or simply fill out our request form online. Our medical professionals will be happy to assist you today!